Western Diplomat: Foreign Troops Possible in Lebanon Post-Truce

Western nations are discussing the possibility of deploying international forces to Lebanon alongside the country’s military in the event of a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, according to a Western diplomat on Wednesday.

Currently, around 10,000 United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeepers are stationed in southern Lebanon, but there are considerations for a separate multinational force to be deployed.

“What is needed now is a ceasefire and a presence that both sides trust. This could involve the Lebanese army with international forces,” the diplomat told AFP, under the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue.

Lebanon’s allies have been supporting the Lebanese army and are exploring how they can provide further assistance in the context of a ceasefire and a long-term diplomatic solution, the diplomat added.

Following nearly a year of conflict with Hamas in Gaza, Israel shifted its attention to Lebanon last month, aiming to secure its northern border amidst ongoing attacks from Hezbollah. Israel has intensified airstrikes on Hezbollah strongholds and deployed ground forces.

The U.N. Security Council’s Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah, called for the deployment of only Lebanese government forces and UNIFIL peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. However, it has faced criticism for limited implementation.

Lebanese media have reported discussions about strengthening the resolution, with some referring to the potential plan as “1701-plus.” During a visit to Beirut on Monday, U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein emphasized that merely committing to Resolution 1701 would not be sufficient, suggesting the need for additional measures to ensure its proper implementation.

The Western diplomat said that the push for a “1701-plus” reflects the fact that neither side has fully implemented the original resolution. Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati has also expressed Lebanon’s readiness to strengthen the army’s presence in the south after a ceasefire is reached.

UNIFIL, established in 1978 to monitor the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon, has recently accused Israel of repeatedly and deliberately targeting its positions.

Hezbollah, formed after Israel’s 1982 invasion of Lebanon, is the only group that retained its weapons after Lebanon’s civil war (1975-1990), claiming its arms are necessary for resisting Israel.

A previous U.N.-mandated multinational force, including troops from the U.S. and France, was deployed to Lebanon after the 1982 Israeli invasion. However, it was targeted in two deadly attacks that claimed nearly 300 lives.